Mayor thanks region after election finally declared

MAYOR Paul Antonio has thanked the Toowoomba region its support after he was finally declared the winner in the mayoral race of the local government election.

The Electoral Commission of Queensland announced Cr Antonio as the winner this morning, with the 38-year veteran of local government enjoying 72 per cent of the vote.

Now in his third term as mayor, Cr Antonio said he had been humbled by receiving the endorsement of the community once again.

Mayor's update :
TRC Mayor Paul Antonio

"I would like to thank the community for their vote of confidence in me," he said.

"We have a big challenge ahead of us and I would like to assure residents throughout the region that we're committed in getting through these uncharted waters.

"As part of this, we'll need to make difficult but necessary decisions once the new council has been formed.

"It's my ambition that this term of the council will build on the momentum of the previous four years, and importantly, engage with our communities about the legacy we are leaving for future generations."

Council CEO Brian Pidgeon congratulated Cr Antonio on the win.

"Mayor Antonio has been a popular and outstanding leader to the people of the Toowoomba region throughout his previous two terms." Mr Pidgeon said.

"Like all local governments across Australia, there is no doubt we're facing a number of significant challenges due to the emergence of the coronavirus.

"During times like these it's comforting to know we have strong leadership in place, and as such, I wish the mayor all the best over the coming term."

Declarations for the 10 council spots are expected soon, with the result having looked likely for more than a week now.